Motor vehicle theft in Canada, 2007: Highlights

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Continuing the general downward trend that began in 1997, the rate of motor vehicle theft reported by Canadian police services fell 9% in 2007, the fourth consecutive annual decline.
Despite recent decreases, motor vehicle theft remains one of the highest-volume offences in Canada. In 2007, police reported approximately 146,000 motor vehicle thefts, an average of about 400 stolen vehicles per day.
Rates of motor vehicle theft are generally higher in western and northern Canada than in the eastern part of the country. In 2007, Manitoba's motor vehicle theft rate fell 10% but remained the highest in the country. The vast majority of Manitoba's motor vehicle thefts occur in Winnipeg.
Young people commit a disproportionate amount of motor vehicle theft. In 2007, the rate of vehicle theft was highest among 15 to 18-year olds and gradually declined with increasing age.
The lowest rate of recovered stolen vehicles was in Montréal, an indicator of the possible involvement of organized crime operations.
In 2007, most vehicles were stolen from public places, such as parking lots or the street. In addition, about one-third of motor vehicles were taken from a private residence.